Federal Anti-Kickback Attorneys & Stark Violation Lawyer
Federal OIG Stark Violation Lawyers and Anti-Kickback Attorneys, Bribes, and Health Care and Government Contract Defense Lawyers
Former Government Agency Officials, Prosecutors, and DOJ Attorneys | Nationwide White Collar Federal Defense Cases | Emergency Consultation Available. Call 1.866.601.5518 24/7
Facing allegations of healthcare fraud and government contractor kick-backs and bribery can be daunting. Our team of experienced government fraud lawyers and federal bribery defense attorneys is here to guide you through every step.
- The Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Inspector General (OIG) Have Increased Their Efforts to Investigate and Charge Government Contractors and Healthcare Professionals Alleged to Stark Laws and Illegal Kickback Provisions
- Why is it that So Many Companies are Settling Cases?
- If you did not intend to defraud the government, we can help.
Physicians must navigate strict federal regulations to avoid legal and professional consequences. Key fraud and abuse laws include the False Claims Act (FCA), Anti-Kickback Statute (AKS), Physician Self-Referral Law (Stark Law), Exclusion Authorities, and the Civil Monetary Penalties Law (CMPL).
These laws, enforced by agencies such as the Department of Justice (DOJ), the Office of Inspector General (OIG), and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), aim to prevent fraudulent billing and unethical financial relationships in healthcare. Violations can lead to severe penalties, including criminal charges, substantial fines, exclusion from federal healthcare programs, and even loss of a medical license. Compliance is not only a legal necessity but also crucial for maintaining a reputable and successful medical practice.
Anti-kickback Statute Violation Defense – Criminal Defense Lawyers
Who Are Our Clients?
As federal False Claims Act lawyers, we represent clients that include:
- Federal government contractors
- Fortune 500 companies
- Manufacturers
- Pharmaceutical companies
- Medical device manufacturers
- Government construction companies
- Defense contractors for services
- Medical professionals
- Biotechnology firms
- Hospitals
- Prime contractors
- Subcontractors
Nationwide help – federal Anti-kickback Attorneys and Stark Statute Criminal defense Stark Violation Lawyers: Engaging in illegal kickbacks or bribes related to government contracts or healthcare can lead to severe civil and criminal consequences under the federal and state Anti-Kickback regulations. Stark law submissions to the federal government that involve kickbacks contravening these laws are deemed false claims as per the Federal False Claims Act (FCA). Watson & Associates, LLC anti-kickback attorneys represent government contractors and healthcare firms charged or indicted for illegal kickbacks.
DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE FALSE CLAIMS ACT DEFENSE CHECKLIST - MINIMIZE JAIL TIME
Nationwide Fraud Defense Team
Firm’s Lead Federal Criminal Defense Lawyers
Speak to National Practice Leader Theodore Watson (Over 23 Years of Federal Practice) – Admitted to the Supreme Court of the United States.
- He oversees False Claims Act Medicare fraud defense attorneys and qui tam defense lawyers and federal healthcare fraud attorneys.
Speak Directly to Theodore Watson. Top False Claims Act defense attorney for small businesses and large corporations nationwide.
For legal support in healthcare fraud defense throughout the U.S., and government contract fraud criminal defense, contact Theodore Watson at 1.866.601.5518. We are committed to serving your legal needs in Alabama.
Carolyn L. Oliver – Counsel (Former DOJ Attorney)
Of Counsel to Watson & Associates, LLC: Carolyn L. Oliver brings over 40 years of distinguished legal experience to Watson & Associates’ Federal White Collar Defense and Investigations practice. As a former DOJ Prosecutor and Assistant United States Attorney in the Major Frauds Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of California, Oliver provides clients with representation from a federal white collar criminal defense attorney who has prosecuted the very types of cases she now defends. Her extensive federal prosecution background, combined with her proven track record in complex criminal defense, positions her as a formidable advocate for corporations, CEOs, and individuals facing high-stakes federal investigations.
Carolyn is a recognized leader in criminal defense, known for her fierce courtroom advocacy and unwavering commitment to justice. She has successfully defended countless clients, earning a reputation for results-driven strategies and compassionate client care. As Of Counsel to Watson & Associates’ Federal White Collar Defense and Investigations practice, Oliver focuses her practice on representing companies and individuals in federal criminal and civil investigations and prosecutions by government enforcement agencies, as well as complex federal litigation. She also advises companies on high-profile, complex, and sensitive internal investigations. Read more…
Chris Mancini – Counsel (Former DOJ Attorney)
Chris Mancini, Counsel, brings 45 years of legal experience to Watson & Associates, to support the firm’s federal white collar defense attorney services, including eight years as an Assistant U.S. Attorney (Former DOJ Prosecutor) in the Southern District of Florida (DOJ), where he served as Deputy Chief of both the Criminal Division and Civil Division.
Chris Mancini specializes in navigating the complexities of the federal court system, providing legal advice, investigating cases, and building strong defense strategies to protect the firm’s clients’ rights and achieve the best possible outcome.
If you have been indicted for a federal white collar crime, you should hire experienced white collar crime lawyers to protect your rights and fight back. Read more.
Robert “Bob” Ayers – Of Counsel (Former Prosecutor)
James M. Allen Counsel (Defense Attorney)
James M. Allen, Of Counsel to Watson & Associates, LLC, is a committed federal white collar criminal defense attorney with experience handling a range of complex matters at the trial and post-conviction levels.
His background includes defending clients in both state and federal forums, with a growing emphasis on federal white collar criminal defense.
As a white collar crime attorney, he maintains a strong professional interest in matters involving procurement fraud, SBA investigations, and regulatory enforcement, and is well-versed in the legal frameworks and defense strategies that shape those cases. James brings a measured, thoughtful approach to every case, prioritizing clarity, strategic planning, and strong client communication.
Wise D. Allen Counsel (Defense Attorney)
Wise D. Allen, Esquire , Counsel, is a former Veteran Lieutenant Commander Judge Advocate for the United States Military. He also has extensive knowledge and experience in resolving corporate defense and litigation in vast international and national legal issues.
He brings a wealth of successful experience to government contractors seeking defense counsel in the various areas of procurement fraud, international contracting, False Claims Act defense, and more.
Mr. Allen’s federal litigation experience as a former appellate attorney representing the United States and federal attorney for defendants in trials that led to his clients receiving overwhelmingly favorable outcomes in contested issues and obtaining non-contested resolutions. Read more..
For a FREE Initial Consultation, call 1.866.601.6618 and speak to Mr. Watson. When you’re under federal investigation, time is not on your side.
HERE IS WHAT YOU NEED TO IF INVESTIGATED OR INDICTED
Call 1.866.601.6618 if you are seeking to retain a medical fraud lawyer and Speak to Stark statute and anti-kickback attorney Mr. Watson
Navigating Stark Statute and Anti-Kickback Allegations
Healthcare Professionals and Federal Contractors: Accusations under the Anti-Kickback Statute (AKS) can be scary and depressing, threatening your professional reputation, financial stability, and personal freedom. At Watson & Associates, LLC, As your Stark Statute and Anti-kickback lawyer and criminal defense lawyer, and OIG violations attorney, we understand the gravity of such accusations and are committed to guiding you through this challenging time with expertise and compassion.
Nationwide Anti-kickback Attorney &Stark Law Lawyers – Understanding the Anti Kickback Statute (AKS) 42 USC 1320a-7b(b
The Anti-Kickback Statute (AKS), 42 USC 1320a-7b(b, is a federal criminal law that prohibits knowingly offering, paying, soliciting, or receiving any form of remuneration to influence patient referrals or generate business for services covered by federal healthcare programs like Medicare and Medicaid.
Remuneration can include not just cash payments but also benefits such as free rent, luxury travel, expensive meals, or inflated salaries for consulting or directorship roles.
Unlike other industries where referral incentives may be standard practice, paying for referrals in federally funded healthcare programs is illegal. Both the giver and receiver of kickbacks can be held liable under the AKS, with intent playing a crucial role in determining criminal responsibility.
The Anti-Kickback Statute is a federal law that prohibits the exchange of remuneration—anything of value—with the intent to induce or reward referrals for services or items reimbursable by federal healthcare programs. This statute aims to ensure that medical decisions are made based on patient needs rather than financial incentives.
See our healthcare fraud alert.
What are Illegal Kickbacks?
Are Kickbacks Illegal? Under Stark law, In legal terms, a “kickback” encompasses any form of monetary or non-monetary compensation, such as money, gifts, favors, or any item of tangible value, given directly or indirectly to prime contractors, subcontractors, or employees or even government employees. Under Stark law, kickbacks are illegal if done to gain undue advantage or favoritism with a prime contract or its associated subcontracts. Examples of illegal kickbacks include meals, monetary gifts, event tickets, or even invitations to sporting or recreational events.
Illegal bribes: Bribing present or past government officials is equally frowned upon. Presenting or promising any form of value to such government officials, aiming for preferential treatment on a government contract, is unethical and holds legal ramifications under the FCA. Bribes are diverse in nature, spanning from tangible gifts to services, travel facilities, accommodations, and even advanced payments or subsequent reimbursements.
WE HELP TO FIGHT UNSUPPORTED GOVERNMENT ALLEGATIONS – CALL OUR ANTI KICKBACK STATUTE LAWYERS TODAY AT 1.866.601.5518
Legal Consequences of Anti-Kickback Statute and Stark Law Violations
Violations of the AKS and Stark Law can lead to both civil and criminal penalties. Civil penalties may include substantial fines and damages under the False Claims Act (FCA), while criminal penalties can involve imprisonment and additional fines. Furthermore, individuals or entities found in violation may face suspension or debarment from participating in future federal contracts, which can have long-term detrimental effects on their business operations.
OIG Stark Law Attorney – OIG Anti-kickback Attorney for Stark Law Penalties
The Stark Law (42 U.S.C. § 1395nn) focuses on patient referrals. It forbids a physician self-referral. A physician can’t obtain personal or financial gain from referring a Medicare or Medicaid patient to a specific healthcare entity.
Criminal penalties and administrative sanctions for Stark Law Violations for violating Anti-Kickback Statute (42 U.S.C. § 1320a-7b(b)) include huge fines, jail terms, and suspension and debarment from participation in the Federal health care programs. In addition, Physicians who pay or accept illegal kickbacks also face penalties of up to $50,000 per kickback plus three times the amount of the remuneration.
If you are facing criminal charges or under a DOJ or OIG investigation for Stark Law violations, our OIG violations attorneys are here to help. At Watson & Associates, LLC, our team of DOJ and OIG OIG stark law attorneys and anti-kickback attorneys specializes in whistleblower and qui tam defense cases. If you are investigated for kickbacks, bribes, and illegal healthcare fraud, call our government healthcare fraud OIG Stark Law lawyers and anti-kickback attorneys at 1.866.601.5518.
DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE FALSE CLAIMS ACT DEFENSE CHECKLIST - MINIMIZE JAIL TIME
Anti-Kickback Federal False Claims Act 31 USC 3729-3733
The Federal False Claims Act protects the Government from being overcharged for medical services or government contracts for goods or services. It is illegal to submit claims for payment to Medicare or Medicaid that are false or fraudulent. Filing false claims under. 31 USC 3729-3733 can result in civil fines of up to three times the amount of the program’s loss plus $11,000 per claim filed. When a claim results from a kickback under Start law you can be subjected to civil and. criminal liability.
Top OIG Stark Law lawyer: contractors facing government contractor fraud charges and healthcare defendants in a criminal case can also be subject to criminal penalties under 18 USC 287. Criminal penalties for submitting false claims include contractor jail time and criminal fines. Physicians can find themselves facing criminal exposure for false health care claims.
Civil Monetary Penalties Law (CMPL) 42 USC 1320a-7a
The Civil Monetary Penalties Law (CMPL) 42 USC 1320a-7a grants the Office of Inspector General (OIG) authority to impose financial penalties and, in some cases, exclude individuals or entities from federal healthcare programs for various violations. The penalties, which can range from $10,000 to $50,000 per violation, depend on the nature and severity of the offense.
Nationwide Anti-kickback violation defense: Common CMPL violations include submitting false or fraudulent claims, seeking payment for services not rendered, violating the Anti-Kickback Statute (AKS), disregarding Medicare assignment rules, breaching Medicare physician agreements, providing misleading information that affects discharge decisions, failing to conduct proper emergency medical screenings, and making false statements on applications for federal healthcare program participation. Compliance with CMPL is essential to avoid severe financial and professional consequences.
Nationwide Criminal Defense
Looking for kaw firms specializing in stark law and Anti-Kickback Statute? Our federal kickback lawyer services cover all states regarding legal and non-legal matters. We assist small businesses and large DoD contractors in Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California oig stark law lawyer, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida anti-kickback attorney, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland oig stark law lawyer, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire anti-kickback law lawyer, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma anti-kickback attorney, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, California anti-kickback law attorney, Texas, U.S. Virgin Islands, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, Washington, DC, West Virginia, Wisconsin anti-kickback attorney, and Wyoming.
Cities in which our government anti-kickback law firm help include Anchorage, AK; Atlanta, GA; Austin, TX; Chicago, IL; Colorado Springs, CO; Dallas Stark Violation Lawyer, TX; Denver, Colorado; Indianapolis, IN; Las Vegas, NV; Los Angeles, CA; Fort Lauderdale Stark Violation Lawyer, Miami anti-kickback violation defense, FL; Philadelphia, Houston anti-kickback attorneys, PA; San Antonio, TX; San Diego Stark Violation Lawyer, CA; San Francisco anti-kickback attorney, CA; San Jose, CA; Santa Clara, CA; Fort Lauderdale anti-kickback attorney and Tampa anti-kickback law firm , FL.
Defending Against AKS and Stark Law Allegations
If you are facing allegations of AKS or Stark Law violations, it is crucial to seek legal representation from DOJ OIG Stark Law attorneys experienced in both healthcare law and government contracting. A comprehensive defense strategy may involve:
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Demonstrating the Absence of Unlawful Intent: Establishing that any remuneration was not intended to induce referrals.
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Utilizing Statutory Exceptions or Safe Harbors: Identifying and applying any applicable exceptions or safe harbors that protect certain arrangements from liability.
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Challenging the Prosecution’s Evidence: Scrutinizing the evidence and interpretations of the law presented by the prosecution.
Why Choose Watson & Associates, LLC
At Watson & Associates, LLC, we specialize in defending clients against AKS and Stark Law allegations. Our team of experienced DOJ OIG Stark Law attorney understands the complexities of these statutes and is dedicated to providing personalized legal strategies to protect your rights and interests.
Contact Our Stark Statute Healthcare Anti-Kickback Attorney
If you are facing allegations related to the Anti-Kickback Statute or Stark Law, don’t navigate this challenging time alone. Contact Watson & Associates, LLC today for a confidential consultation. Let us help you protect your future.DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE FALSE CLAIMS ACT DEFENSE CHECKLIST - MINIMIZE JAIL TIME
Call Watson & Associates’ anti-kickback attorney and DOJ OIG Stark Violation Lawyer today for immediate help and a confidential, free initial consultation at 1.866.601.5518. Speak to Theodore Watson.